Iran Tightens Rules on Foreign Media Use

Iran has expanded restrictions on international news organisations operating in the country, ordering them to limit how their reporting can be shared by foreign and Israeli-linked outlets.

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Under new guidance issued Tuesday by Iran’s Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance, international media outlets based in Tehran must state that their content cannot be republished by Israeli media or Farsi-language television channels operating outside Iran.

The new directive was sent to several foreign news organisations, including Associated Press. According to the AP’s translation of the notice from Farsi, Iranian authorities warned that “responsibility for failing to comply with this directive rests with the submitting media outlet”.

Iran has also prohibited some international outlets from sharing material from broadcasters such as BBC Persian, Manoto TV and Iran International. Media organisations that violate the rules risk losing permission to operate inside Iran.

State media scrutiny

Iranian state media regularly publishes updates on domestic developments and ongoing negotiations with the United States, alongside commentary reflecting the position of the Islamic Republic. Several state-run outlets also produce English-language coverage aimed at international audiences.

The restrictions come amid heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington over military activity and nuclear negotiations.

On Wednesday, the White House accused Iranian state media of spreading false information after reports emerged claiming a draft memorandum of understanding between the two countries had been leaked.

Iranian outlets alleged the proposed agreement would include the lifting of a US naval blockade on Iranian ports and the withdrawal of American forces from Iran.

In a statement posted on X, the White House rapid response team dismissed the report, saying the alleged memorandum was “a complete fabrication”.

“Nobody should believe what Iranian state media is putting out. FACTS MATTER,” the statement said.

Nuclear talks continue

Despite the dispute, US officials say negotiations with Iran in Doha are continuing. Talks began last week and are focused on reducing regional tensions and addressing Iran’s nuclear programme.

According to reports, proposals under discussion could include measures to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and extend an existing ceasefire by 60 days while negotiators work on the future of Iran’s uranium stockpile and nuclear activities.

Relations between the two countries have deteriorated further following what the US described as “defensive strikes” carried out in southern Iran earlier this week.

Iranian officials accused Washington of violating the ceasefire agreement. However, US President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have both suggested a broader agreement could be reached within days.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 28 May 2026